World Down Syndrome Day – United Nations, NYC

A self-advocate celebrates at the United Nations' official commemoration of World Down Syndrome Day in New York City and all 191 UN member countries.

On March 21, 2012, the Global Down Syndrome Foundation and the Linda Crnic Institute for Down Syndrome spoke at the first United Nations’ Down Syndrome Conference. The conference commemorated the UN’s resolution to recognize March 21st as the official “World Down Syndrome Day” in 191 countries. World-renowned speakers from several countries including Brazil, the United Kingdom, Indonesia and Peru were invited to speak.

Global Down Syndrome Foundation Executive Director Michelle Sie Whitten kicked-off the impressive panel of speakers with a presentation titled “The Power of Media – A Guide to Working with the Media to Promote Inclusion.” Key staff from the Linda Crnic Institute also presented on the latest and best practices surrounding medical care and research for individuals with Down syndrome. You can watch video from the entire conference by clicking here.

The UN’s New York offices were inundated by self-advocates from around the world who were eager to attend this first-of-its-kind event. Prior to the event, UN Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon issued a special statement commemorating the occasion and reaffirming that people with Down syndrome deserve fundamental human and civil rights.

“On this day, let us reaffirm that persons with Down syndrome are entitled to the full and effective enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms. Let us each do our part to enable children and persons with Down syndrome to participate fully in the development and life of their societies on an equal basis with others. Let us build an inclusive society for all.”

– Ban Ki-Moon, Secretary General, United Nations

The Global Down Syndrome Foundation applauds the United Nations for helping to raise awareness about Down syndrome in all its 191 member countries, and looks forward to participating in the World Down Syndrome Day on March 21, 2013.

CONFERENCE PROGRAM

Self-advocates from around the world gathered at the United Nations in New York City on March 21, 2012.

10:00 – 10:30am Opening Remarks and Launch of World Down Syndrome Day

Penny Robertson OAM – Chair of Board of Trustees, Down Syndrome International (DSi) –Welcome and Introductions

Dr. Asha-Rose Migiro, – United Nations Deputy Secretary-General – Message on World Down Syndrome Day